A visual showing period-related headaches, rest, water and when to ask for help.

Quick answer

Some people get headaches before or during their period. This can happen with hormone changes, tiredness, dehydration, stress or pain.

Strong, sudden, unusual or worrying headaches should be taken seriously.

What can I try?

  • drink water
  • eat something if you have not eaten
  • rest somewhere quiet
  • avoid very bright light if it makes it worse
  • ask a trusted adult about safe pain relief

Track what happens

It can help to write down when the headache starts, how bad it is, whether you had your period, and what helped.

When should I ask for help?

Tell a trusted adult or healthcare professional if your headache is severe, sudden, keeps coming back, comes with fainting, confusion, vision changes, vomiting, fever, or anything that worries you.

Ask Luma

You could ask: “Can periods cause headaches?” or “What should I write down about my headaches?”

Final reassurance

Headaches can happen, but you should not have to struggle through strong or worrying symptoms alone.